Vacuum cleaner and setting method for a vacuum cleaner

Abstract

The present application provides a dust collector and a setting method for the dust collector, which can suppress the noise generated by the dust collector. The dust collector comprises: a motor; a fan which rotates around a rotation axis by the motor; a cover which has a suction inlet arranged at the front side of the fan; and a reinforcing rib which is arranged at the suction inlet and extends in the radial direction of the rotation axis. The fan has a plurality of blades. The reinforcing rib is arranged with a plurality of reinforcing ribs in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis. The frequency f of the noise generated due to the rotation of the fan is determined in a manner such that f = N / Z*V NZ The number Z of the blades, the number V of the reinforcing ribs, and the rotation speed N of the fan per 1 minute are determined in a manner such that f = N / Z*V is 20000 Hz or more.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a vacuum cleaner and a method for setting up a vacuum cleaner. Background Technology

[0002] In the technical field related to vacuum cleaners, vacuum cleaners with a suction unit as disclosed in Patent Document 1 are known.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 6686131 Summary of the Invention

[0006] If a vacuum cleaner makes noise, it will make the user and those around them feel uncomfortable.

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to suppress the noise generated by vacuum cleaners.

[0008] This invention provides a vacuum cleaner, characterized by comprising: a motor; a fan that rotates about a rotation axis using the motor; a cover having an intake port disposed on the front side of the fan; and reinforcing ribs disposed at the intake port and extending radially along the rotation axis. The fan has multiple blades, and multiple reinforcing ribs are arranged circumferentially along the rotation axis, such that the frequency f of the noise generated by the rotation of the fan is such that... NZ For frequencies above 20000Hz, determine the number of blades Z, the number of reinforcing ribs V, and the fan speed N per minute. Where f NZ = (mk×V)×N / 60, m = n×Z+k×V, n: number of times, m: integer, k: integer.

[0009] Invention Effects

[0010] According to the present invention, noise generated by a vacuum cleaner can be suppressed. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the vacuum cleaner involved in the embodiment.

[0012] Figure 2 This is a side view of the vacuum cleaner according to the embodiment.

[0013] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the vacuum cleaner involved in the embodiment.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the connecting pipe portion involved in the implementation method.

[0015] Figure 5This is a perspective view showing the left outer shell, sound-absorbing component, and controller involved in the embodiment.

[0016] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing the right-side housing, sound-absorbing component, and controller involved in the embodiment.

[0017] Figure 7 This is a side view showing the left outer casing, sound-absorbing component, and controller involved in the embodiment.

[0018] Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the left outer shell and the sound-absorbing component involved in the embodiment.

[0019] Figure 9 This is a side view showing the left outer casing and the sound-absorbing component involved in the embodiment.

[0020] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the suction unit involved in the embodiment, viewed from the front.

[0021] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the suction unit involved in the embodiment, viewed from the rear.

[0022] Figure 12 This is a diagram obtained from a frontal view of the suction unit involved in the implementation method.

[0023] Figure 13 This is an exploded perspective view of the suction unit involved in the embodiment, viewed from the front.

[0024] Figure 14 This is a perspective view showing the motor and fan involved in the implementation method.

[0025] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the airflow in the suction unit according to the embodiment.

[0026] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the reinforcing ribs and blades involved in the implementation method.

[0027] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the reinforcing ribs and blades involved in the implementation method.

[0028] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the reinforcing ribs and blades involved in the implementation method.

[0029] Figure 19 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the characteristic Mach number involved in the implementation method.

[0030] Figure 20This is a diagram used to illustrate the method for calculating the noise frequency involved in the implementation method.

[0031] Figure 21 It is a block diagram representing the computer system involved in the implementation method.

[0032] Figure 22 This is a flowchart illustrating the method for setting up the inhalation unit according to the embodiment.

[0033] Symbol Explanation

[0034] 1…vacuum cleaner, 2…outer shell, 3…suction unit, 4…filter support component, 5…sound absorption component, 6…battery assembly, 7…controller, 8…interface device, 9…handle, 10…air inlet, 11…exhaust outlet, 12…motor assembly, 13…cover, 14…motor, 15…fan, 16…motor housing, 17…control board, 18…filter, 19…battery pack, 21…front outer shell, 22…rear outer shell, 22L…left outer shell, 22R…right outer shell, 22S…screw, 23…cylinder, 24…fan cover, 25…support component, 26…foot, 27…air inlet, 28…exhaust outlet, 31…first cover, 32…second cover, 33… …Cylinder section, 34…Front plate section, 35…Inlet, 36…Rectifier section, 37…Protrusion, 38…Protrusion, 39…Screw opening, 41…Cylinder section, 42…Rear plate section, 43…Opening, 44…Screw boss, 45…Screw hole, 46…Pin, 47…Support section, 48…Protrusion, 49…Protrusion, 51…First surface, 52…Second surface, 53…Outer peripheral surface, 54…Flow hole, 55…Support hole, 60…Elastic member, 61…First elastic member, 62…Second elastic member, 63…First connecting section, 64…Second connecting section, 65…Closing section, 66…Pipe section, 67…Support hole, 70…Guide section, 71…First guide section, 72… Second guide section, 73… Third guide section, 74… Flow path, 75… Outlet, 81… Drive button, 82… Mode switching button, 83… Display section, 90… Screw, 141… Rotor shaft, 151… Inlet, 152… Front plate, 153… Rear plate, 154… Blade, 155… Outlet, 211… Opening, 212… Connecting pipe section, 213… Inner surface, 214… Recess, 214A… First surface, 214B… Second surface, 214C… Third surface, 214D… Fourth surface, 215… Locking section, 216… Opening, 217… Hook section, 221… Support section, 221A… Peripheral wall section, 221B… Reinforcing rib section, 222… Support section, 2 22A…Front support, 222B…Upper support, 222C…Lower support, 223…Support, 224…Controller support, 225…Ring, 341…Ring, 342…Ring, 343…Reinforcing rib, 344…Reinforcing rib, 351…First intake, 352…Second intake, 361…Inner ring, 362…Outer ring, 362A…First part, 362B…Second part, 363…Reinforcing rib, 363A…First reinforcing rib, 363B…Second reinforcing rib, 1000…Computer system, 1001…Processor, 1002…Main storage device, 1003…Memory, 1004…Interface, AX…Rotating axis. Detailed Implementation

[0035] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings; however, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. The constituent elements of the embodiments described below can be appropriately combined. In addition, some constituent elements may not be used at times.

[0036] In this implementation, the terms "front," "back," "left," "right," "up," and "down" are used to describe the positional relationships of the various parts. These terms indicate the relative position or direction with respect to the center of the vacuum cleaner 1.

[0037] Vacuum cleaner 1 has a motor 14. The rotor of motor 14 rotates about a rotation axis AX. In this embodiment, the radial direction of the rotation axis AX is appropriately referred to as radial. The direction around the rotation axis AX is appropriately referred to as circumferential or rotational direction. The direction parallel to the rotation axis AX is appropriately referred to as axial.

[0038] In the radial direction, the position closest to or in the direction of the rotation axis AX is appropriately called the radially inner side, and the position furthest from or in the direction separated from the rotation axis AX is appropriately called the radially outer side. Similarly, the position or direction of one side in the circumferential direction is appropriately called the circumferential side, and the position or direction of the other side in the circumferential direction is appropriately called the circumferential other side. Likewise, the position or direction of one side in the axial direction is appropriately called the axial side, and the position or direction of the other side in the axial direction is appropriately called the axial other side.

[0039] In this implementation, the rotation axis AX extends in the front-to-back direction. One side of the axis is the front side, and the other side is the rear side.

[0040] [Overview of Vacuum Cleaners]

[0041] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the vacuum cleaner 1 according to the embodiment. Figure 2 This is a side view of the vacuum cleaner 1 according to the embodiment. Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view showing the vacuum cleaner 1 according to the embodiment.

[0042] Vacuum cleaner 1 includes: housing 2, suction unit 3, filter support component 4, sound absorption component 5, battery assembly 6, controller 7, and interface device 8.

[0043] The outer casing 2 has a handle 9 for the user of the vacuum cleaner 1 to hold. The vacuum cleaner 1 is a handheld vacuum cleaner capable of performing cleaning operations with the handle 9 held by the user.

[0044] The outer casing 2 houses the suction unit 3, filter support component 4, sound-absorbing component 5, and controller 7. The outer casing 2 has an air inlet 10 and an exhaust outlet 11. The air inlet 10 is located at the front end of the outer casing 2. The exhaust outlets 11 are located on the left and right sides of the rear portion of the outer casing 2. The air inlet 10 connects the external and internal spaces of the outer casing 2. The exhaust outlets 11 connect the internal and external spaces of the outer casing 2.

[0045] The suction unit 3 generates an attractive force at the air inlet 10. The suction unit 3 has a motor assembly 12 and a cover 13. The motor assembly 12 includes a motor 14, a fan 15, a motor housing 16, and a control board 17. The motor 14 generates a rotational force that rotates the fan 15. The fan 15 rotates using the rotational force generated by the motor 14. The motor housing 16 houses the motor 14 and the fan 15. The control board 17 outputs a control signal to control the motor 14. The control board 17 has, for example, a field-effect transistor (FET). The cover 13 is disposed around the motor assembly 12. The cover 13 houses the motor assembly 12.

[0046] The fan 15 is rotated by the motor 14, thereby generating suction at the air inlet 10. Air from the external space of the housing 2 flows into the internal space of the housing 2 through the air inlet 10. Air from the internal space of the housing 2 flows out to the external space of the housing 2 through the exhaust port 11.

[0047] The filter support member 4 supports the filter 18. The filter support member 4 is composed of multiple linear components. The filter 18 captures dust from the air flowing into the interior space of the housing 2 through the air inlet 10. The filter 18 is disposed around the filter support member 4. The filter support member 4 and the filter 18 are disposed within the interior space of the housing 2 between the air inlet 10 and the suction unit 3.

[0048] The sound-absorbing component 5 is configured to be located inside the housing 2, opposite the exhaust port 11. The sound-absorbing component 5 is a porous material with continuous air bubbles. The sound-absorbing component 5 absorbs sound propagating in the air to suppress noise generation. Examples of noise generated by the vacuum cleaner 1 include wind noise generated by airflow and NZ noise generated by the rotation of the fan 15.

[0049] The battery assembly section 6 is located at the lower rear of the housing 2. A battery pack 19 is mounted in the battery assembly section 6. The battery pack 19 can be installed and removed from the battery assembly section 6.

[0050] The battery pack 19 functions as the power source for the vacuum cleaner 1. The battery pack 19 supplies power to the vacuum cleaner 1 when assembled in the battery assembly 6. The motor 14 is driven using the power supplied from the battery pack 19. The controller 7 operates using the power supplied from the battery pack 19. The battery pack 19 is a general-purpose battery that can be used as a power source for various electrical devices. The battery pack 19 can be used as a power source for power tools. The battery pack 19 can also be used as a power source for electrical devices other than power tools. The battery pack 19 can also be used as a power source for vacuum cleaners other than the vacuum cleaner 1 described in this embodiment. The battery pack 19 contains a lithium-ion battery. The battery pack 19 is a rechargeable battery. The battery assembly 6 has the same structure as the battery assembly of a power tool.

[0051] The user of the vacuum cleaner 1 can perform the following operations: assembling the battery pack 19 into the battery assembly section 6, and removing the battery pack 19 from the battery assembly section 6. The battery assembly section 6 has a guide member and main body terminals. The battery pack 19 has battery terminals. The guide member of the battery assembly section 6 guides the battery pack 19. The main body terminals of the battery assembly section 6 are connected to the battery terminals of the battery pack 19. The user can assemble the battery pack 19 into the battery assembly section 6 by inserting it from the rear. The battery pack 19 is inserted into the battery assembly section 6 while being guided by the guide member. By assembling the battery pack 19 into the battery assembly section 6, the battery terminals of the battery pack 19 are electrically connected to the main body terminals of the battery assembly section 6. The battery pack 19 has a release button. The user of the vacuum cleaner 1 can move the battery pack 19 to the rear by operating the locking release button of the battery pack 19, thereby removing the battery pack 19 from the battery assembly 6.

[0052] The controller 7 controls the electronic equipment mounted on the vacuum cleaner 1. The controller 7 controls the motor 14 via the control board 17. The controller 7 controls the drive current supplied from the battery pack 19 to the motor 14. The controller 7 and the control board 17 are connected via a cable (not shown). Examples of the cable include: a power line for supplying power from the battery pack 19 to the motor 14, and a signal line for supplying control signals to the control board 17. The controller 7 includes a board on which multiple electronic components are mounted. Examples of electronic components mounted on the board include: a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a non-volatile storage device such as ROM (Read Only Memory) or RAM, a volatile storage device such as RAM (Random Access Memory), and resistors.

[0053] An interface device 8 is mounted on a handle 9. The interface device 8 includes a drive button 81, a mode switch button 82, and a display unit 83. The drive button 81 and the mode switch button 82 are operated by the user. The user can operate the drive button 81 and the mode switch button 82 while holding the handle 9.

[0054] When motor 14 stops, operating the drive button 81 starts the motor 14. When motor 14 is driven, fan 15 rotates. The rotation of fan 15 generates suction at air inlet 10. This suction at air inlet 10 draws in air and dust from the external space of housing 2. The air drawn in from air inlet 10 flows into the internal space of housing 2. The air flowing into the internal space of housing 2 passes through filter 18. Filter 18 captures dust contained in the air. The air flowing through filter 18 passes through suction unit 3 and is discharged from exhaust port 11 into the external space of housing 2. When motor 14 is driven, operating the mode switch button 82 adjusts the motor 14 speed in four increments. Operating the mode switch button 82 once while motor 14 is driven changes the motor 14 speed from the first speed to the second speed. If the mode switch button 82 is operated again, the speed of motor 14 changes from the second speed to the third speed. If the mode switch button 82 is operated again, the speed of motor 14 changes from the third speed to the fourth speed. If the mode switch button 82 is operated again, the speed of motor 14 returns to the first speed. By changing the speed of motor 14, the suction force at the air intake 10 is changed. When motor 14 is in operation, if the drive button 81 is operated, motor 14 stops.

[0055] The display unit 83 has four light-emitting units. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) can be used as examples of these units. When the motor 14 is driven at a first rotational speed, one light-emitting unit is illuminated. When the motor 14 is driven at a second rotational speed, two light-emitting units are illuminated. When the motor 14 is driven at a third rotational speed, three light-emitting units are illuminated. When the motor 14 is driven at a fourth rotational speed, all four light-emitting units are illuminated. When the motor 14 stops, all four light-emitting units are turned off.

[0056] [shell]

[0057] The outer casing 2 includes a front outer casing 21 and a rear outer casing 22. The front outer casing 21 has an opening 211. The opening 211 is located at the rear of the front outer casing 21. The front portion of the rear outer casing 22 is inserted into the opening 211 of the front outer casing 21. The front outer casing 21 and the rear outer casing 22 are connected by the insertion of the front portion of the rear outer casing 22 into the opening 211. The front outer casing 21 and the rear outer casing 22 are detachable.

[0058] The front housing 21 has a connecting pipe section 212. The connecting pipe section 212 is disposed at the front of the front housing 21. The air inlet 10 is provided at the front end of the connecting pipe section 212. The filter support member 4 and the filter 18 are disposed in the internal space of the front housing 21.

[0059] The rear housing 22 has a handle 9. A battery mounting section 6 is disposed at the lower part of the rear housing 22. The rear housing 22 includes a left housing 22L and a right housing 22R. The left housing 22L is positioned further to the left than the right housing 22R. The left housing 22L and the right housing 22R are secured by a plurality of screws 22S. Exhaust vents 11 are provided on both the left housing 22L and the right housing 22R. An intake unit 3, a sound-absorbing component 5, and a controller 7 are disposed within the interior space of the rear housing 22.

[0060] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the connecting pipe section 212 involved in the embodiment. Figure 4 Equivalent to Figure 1 The image is obtained by observing the outer shell 2 from direction A.

[0061] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the connecting pipe section 212 has an inner surface 213 facing the flow path of the connecting pipe section 212. The inner surface 213 is configured to surround the rotation axis AX. The inner surface 213 is substantially parallel to the rotation axis AX.

[0062] The connecting tube portion 212 has a recess 214. The recess 214 is formed such that it is recessed from the front end of the upper portion of the connecting tube portion 212 toward the rear. The inner surface of the recess 214 includes a first surface 214A, a second surface 214B, a third surface 214C, and a fourth surface 214D.

[0063] The first surface 214A, the second surface 214B, and the third surface 214C are substantially parallel to the rotation axis AX. The fourth surface 214D is substantially orthogonal to the axis parallel to the rotation axis AX. The first surface 214A faces downward. The second surface 214B faces to the left. The third surface 214C faces to the right. The fourth surface 214D faces forward. The upper end of the second surface 214B is connected to the right end of the first surface 214A. The upper end of the third surface 214C is connected to the left end of the first surface 214A. The upper end of the fourth surface 214D is connected to the rear end of the first surface 214A. The lower ends of the second surface 214B, the third surface 214C, and the fourth surface 214D are connected to the inner surface 213. A corner is formed between the lower end of the second surface 214B and the inner surface 213. A corner is formed between the lower end of the third surface 214C and the inner surface 213. A corner is formed between the lower end of the fourth surface 214D and the inner surface 213.

[0064] The base of the suction tube (not shown) is inserted into the air inlet 10. The suction tube is detachable from the connecting tube section 212. The connecting tube section 212 has a locking part 215 for securing the suction tube. The locking part 215 secures the connecting tube section 212 and the suction tube.

[0065] At least a portion of the locking part 215 is disposed in an opening 216 provided on the first surface 214A. The locking part 215 has a hook part 217. The hook part 217 faces the flow path of the connecting tube part 212. The hook part 217 protrudes toward the flow path of the connecting tube part 212. The locking part 215 is rotatably supported on the connecting tube part 212, such that the hook part 217 can change between a state protruding from the first surface 214A and a state not protruding from the first surface 214A. A spring (not shown) is disposed between the connecting tube part 212 and the locking part 215. The spring provides elastic force to the locking part 215, causing the hook part 217 to protrude from the first surface 214A. A recess is provided in a portion of the suction tube. The connecting tube part 212 and the suction tube are fixed by the hook part 217 engaging with the recess of the suction tube. By releasing the fixation provided by the locking part 215, the suction tube can be detached from the connecting tube part 212.

[0066] The hook portion 217 is positioned further forward than the fourth surface 214D. With the hook portion 217 protruding from the first surface 214A, the fourth surface 214D and the hook portion 217 are opposite each other.

[0067] When the air inlet 10 is blocked, surge may occur due to the structure of the fan 15. Surge refers to the phenomenon where at least a portion of the air inlet 10 is blocked, reducing the airflow through the air inlet 10 and causing abnormal noise. As described above, at least a portion of the locking part 215 is disposed at an opening 216 provided in the connecting pipe part 212. Accordingly, a first gap is formed between the connecting pipe part 212 and the rear portion of the locking part 215. In addition, a second gap is formed between the connecting pipe part 212 and the rear portion of the hook part 217. Therefore, even if the air inlet 10 is blocked, air can flow into the space between the connecting pipe part 212 and the locking part 215 through the first gap, and into the flow path of the connecting pipe part 212 through the second gap. Accordingly, the generation of surge can be suppressed. Furthermore, if the suction pipe is inserted into the connecting pipe part 212 and fixed to the hook part 217, the second gap is blocked. Therefore, since air will not leak out from the second gap, an attractive force is generated appropriately.

[0068] [Sound-absorbing components]

[0069] Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing the left outer casing 22L, the sound-absorbing component 5, and the controller 7 involved in the embodiment. Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing the right outer casing 22R, the sound-absorbing component 5, and the controller 7 involved in the embodiment. Figure 7 This is a side view showing the left outer casing 22L, the sound-absorbing component 5, and the controller 7 involved in the embodiment. Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the left outer shell 22L and the sound-absorbing component 5 involved in the embodiment. Figure 9 This is a side view showing the left outer shell 22L and the sound-absorbing component 5 according to the embodiment.

[0070] Two sound-absorbing components 5 are arranged inside the rear housing 22. One sound-absorbing component 5 is configured to face the exhaust port 11 of the left housing 22L inside the rear housing 22. The other sound-absorbing component 5 is configured to face the exhaust port 11 of the right housing 22R inside the rear housing 22.

[0071] The sound-absorbing component 5 has: a first surface 51, a second surface 52 facing in the opposite direction to the first surface 51, and an outer peripheral surface 53 connecting the peripheral portions of the first surface 51 and the second surface 52. The sound-absorbing component 5 is block-shaped.

[0072] The sound-absorbing component 5 is a porous material with continuous bubbles. The sound-absorbing component 5 has a large number of microbubbles. Continuous bubbles refer to multiple interconnected bubbles. The porous material with continuous bubbles includes at least one of the following: soft polyurethane foam, glass wool, rock wool, and felt.

[0073] Additionally, the sound-absorbing component 5 has: a flow hole 54 penetrating the first surface 51 and the second surface 52, and a support hole 55 penetrating the first surface 51 and the second surface 52. Multiple flow holes 54 are provided. The multiple flow holes 54 are substantially parallel. One support hole 55 is provided.

[0074] The openings at one end and the other end of the flow-through orifice 54 are essentially circular. The inner diameter of the flow-through orifice 54 is larger than the size of one air bubble.

[0075] The openings at one end and the other end of the support hole 55 are essentially oblong. The dimension of the shorter side of the opening of the support hole 55 is smaller than the dimension (diameter) of the opening of the flow hole 54.

[0076] The exhaust port 11 is a narrow slit. Multiple exhaust ports 11 are arranged at certain intervals along the short side of the exhaust port 11.

[0077] The sound-absorbing component 5 is disposed in the interior space of the rear housing 22 such that at least a portion of the opening at one end of the flow hole 54 overlaps with the exhaust port 11, and the opening at the other end of the flow hole 54 faces the interior space of the rear housing.

[0078] The rear outer casing 22 has: a support portion 221 opposite to the first surface 51 of the sound-absorbing member 5, a support portion 222 opposite to the outer peripheral surface 53 of the sound-absorbing member 5, and a support portion 223 inserted into the support hole 55. Support portions 221 are provided on the left outer casing 22L and the right outer casing 22R respectively. Support portions 222 are provided on the left outer casing 22L and the right outer casing 22R respectively. Support portions 223 are provided on the left outer casing 22L and the right outer casing 22R respectively. The support portions 221, 222, and 223 of the left outer casing 22L protrude to the right from the inner surface of the left outer casing 22L. The support portions 221, 222, and 223 of the right outer casing 22R protrude to the left from the inner surface of the right outer casing 22R respectively.

[0079] The support portion 221 includes: a peripheral wall portion 221A configured to surround a plurality of exhaust ports 11; and reinforcing rib portions 221B disposed between adjacent exhaust ports 11. The shape of the peripheral wall portion 221A is substantially the same as the outer shape of the first surface 51. The peripheral wall portion 221A contacts the peripheral edge of the first surface 51. Multiple reinforcing rib portions 221B are provided. The reinforcing rib portions 221B contact the first surface 51.

[0080] The support portion 222 includes: a front support portion 222A configured to be further forward than the exhaust port 11, an upper support portion 222B configured to be further upward than the exhaust port 11, and a lower support portion 222C configured to be further downward than the exhaust port 11.

[0081] Two front support portions 222A are provided. The front support portion 222A contacts the front part of the outer peripheral surface 53. The upper support portion 222B contacts the upper part of the outer peripheral surface 53. The lower support portion 222C contacts the lower part of the outer peripheral surface 53. The lower support portion 222C functions as a screw boss portion configured for at least a portion of the screw 22S.

[0082] The support portion 223 is configured to protrude from a reinforcing rib portion 221B. The support portion 223 is inserted into the support hole 55.

[0083] The rear housing 22 has a controller support 224 that supports the controller 7. The controller 7 is disposed on the rear side of the sound-absorbing member 5 in a state supported by the controller support 224. The controller 7 is configured to face the rear of the outer peripheral surface 53 in a state supported by the controller support 224.

[0084] Because the sound-absorbing component 5 is arranged inside the housing 2 facing the exhaust port 11, noise generation can be suppressed. Furthermore, the sound-absorbing component 5 has a flow-through hole 54. Air discharged from the inside of the housing 2 to the outside passes through the flow-through hole 54. By providing the flow-through hole 54 in the sound-absorbing component 5, air can be smoothly discharged from the inside of the housing 2 to the outside. Using the sound-absorbing component 5 with the flow-through hole 54, the increase in exhaust resistance can be suppressed, and noise generation can be suppressed. Because the air flows smoothly, the reduction in suction power of the vacuum cleaner 1 is suppressed.

[0085] Multiple flow holes 54 are provided in the sound-absorbing component 5. This allows air to flow smoothly through the flow holes 54 of the sound-absorbing component 5. Furthermore, by providing multiple flow holes 54, the surface area of ​​the sound-absorbing component 5 is increased. Therefore, the sound absorption effect of the sound-absorbing component 5 is improved.

[0086] The multiple flow holes 54 are substantially parallel. This allows air to flow smoothly through the flow holes 54.

[0087] The sound-absorbing component 5 is configured such that at least a portion of the opening at one end of the flow hole 54 faces the exhaust port 11, and the opening at the other end of the flow hole 54 faces the center of the internal space of the housing 2. Accordingly, air flowing into the flow hole 54 from the opening at the other end of the flow hole 54 is discharged from the opening at one end of the flow hole 54 and then smoothly discharged to the external space of the housing 2 via the exhaust port 11.

[0088] The exhaust port 11 is a narrow, elongated slit. This prevents foreign objects from entering the interior space of the housing 2 through the exhaust port 11. The inner diameter of the opening at one end of the flow hole 54 is larger than the dimension of the exhaust port 11 along its shorter side. This allows air flowing through the flow hole 54 and exiting from the opening at one end of the flow hole 54 to be smoothly discharged into the exterior space of the housing 2 through the exhaust port 11.

[0089] Multiple exhaust ports 11 are provided along the short side of the exhaust ports 11. Air is thus smoothly discharged through the multiple exhaust ports 11. The inner diameter of the opening at one end of the flow hole 54 is larger than the spacing of the exhaust ports 11 along the short side of the exhaust ports 11. Therefore, at least a portion of the opening at one end of the flow hole 54 overlaps with the exhaust ports 11. That is, the opening at one end of the flow hole 54 can be prevented from being blocked by the inner surface of the housing 2 between the exhaust ports 11. Therefore, air flowing through the flow hole 54 and exiting from the opening at one end of the flow hole 54 is smoothly discharged into the external space of the housing 2 through the exhaust ports 11.

[0090] Multiple flow holes 54 are provided on both the short and long sides of the exhaust port 11. Accordingly, the air inside the housing 2 flows through the multiple flow holes 54 and is then smoothly discharged to the outside space of the housing 2 through the exhaust port 11.

[0091] The sound-absorbing component 5 is supported by a support portion 223 protruding from the inner surface of the housing 2. The support portion 223 is disposed in a support hole 55. The sound-absorbing component 5 can be easily assembled to the housing 2 simply by inserting the support portion 223 into the support hole 55. Therefore, the reduced workability when assembling the sound-absorbing component 5 to the housing 2 is suppressed. In addition, the reduced workability when removing the sound-absorbing component 5 from the housing 2 is also suppressed.

[0092] A hook portion is provided at the front end of the support portion 223. When the support portion 223 is inserted into the support hole 55, the hook portion of the support portion 223 can be engaged with the second surface 52 of the sound-absorbing component 5. Accordingly, the sound-absorbing component 5 is stably mounted to the housing 2 by means of the support portion 223.

[0093] [Attraction Unit]

[0094] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the suction unit 3 according to the embodiment, viewed from the front. Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the attraction unit 3 as described in the embodiment, viewed from the rear. Figure 12 This is a diagram obtained by viewing the suction unit 3 involved in the embodiment from the front. Figure 13 This is an exploded perspective view of the attraction unit 3 according to the embodiment, viewed from the front. Figure 14 This is a perspective view showing the motor 14 and fan 15 according to the embodiment. The suction unit 3 includes: a motor assembly 12, a cover 13, and an elastic member 60.

[0095] <Motor Assembly>

[0096] The motor assembly 12 includes: a motor 14, a fan 15, a motor housing 16, and a control board 17.

[0097] Motor 14 generates rotational force that causes fan 15 to rotate. Motor 14 is an internal rotor type motor. Motor 14 has a rotor shaft 141 that rotates around a rotation axis AX. Fan 15 is fixed to the front of rotor shaft 141.

[0098] Fan 15 is configured to be positioned further forward than motor 14. Fan 15 rotates around its axis AX using the rotational force generated by motor 14. Fan 15 is a centrifugal fan. Figure 14 As shown, the fan 15 has: a front plate 152 having an intake 151; a rear plate 153 configured to be further rearward than the front plate 152; and blades 154 disposed between the front plate 152 and the rear plate 153.

[0099] Multiple blades 154 are arranged around the rotating shaft AX. The multiple blades 154 are identical in shape. The multiple blades 154 are identical in size in the circumferential, radial, and axial directions. The multiple blades 154 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0100] An outlet 155 is provided between adjacent blades 154. When the fan 15 rotates, air further forward of the fan 15 is drawn into the intake 151. After passing between the blades 154, the air drawn into the intake 151 is discharged radially outward from the outlet 155.

[0101] The motor housing 16 houses the motor 14 and the fan 15. The motor housing 16 includes a cylindrical portion 23, a fan cover portion 24, a support portion 25, and feet 26.

[0102] The cylindrical portion 23 is configured to surround the rotating shaft AX. The fan cover portion 24 is configured to be positioned further forward than the fan 15. The fan cover portion 24 is located at the front end of the cylindrical portion 23. The support portion 25 supports the motor 14 and the control board 17. Two feet 26 are fixed to the support portion 25. The feet 26 are provided. The feet 26 are configured to be positioned further radially outward than the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23.

[0103] The motor housing 16 has an air inlet 27 and an exhaust outlet 28. The air inlet 27 is located at the front end of the motor housing 16. The exhaust outlet 28 is located further rearward than the air inlet 27. In this embodiment, the air inlet 27 is located at the center of the fan cover portion 24. The exhaust outlet 28 is located between the rear end of the cylinder portion 23 and the outer surface of the support portion 25. Air from the fan 15 is discharged through the exhaust outlet 28 to a position further rearward than the motor housing 16.

[0104] The control board 17 outputs control signals to control the motor 14. The control board 17 is positioned further rearward than the support portion 25. The control board 17 is positioned opposite the rear of the support portion 25. The control board 17 is supported by the support portion 25. The control board 17 is positioned between the two feet 26.

[0105] <Cover>

[0106] A cover 13 is disposed around the motor assembly 12. The cover 13 houses the motor assembly 12. The cover 13 is fixed to the housing 2.

[0107] The cover 13 includes a first cover 31 and a second cover 32. At least a portion of the second cover 32 is configured to be positioned further rearward than the first cover 31. The first cover 31 and the second cover 32 are connected. The second cover 32 is detachable from the first cover 31. The first cover 31 and the second cover 32 form an internal space for the motor assembly 12 to be disposed.

[0108] The first cover 31 has: a cylindrical portion 33, a front plate portion 34, an intake port 35, a rectifier portion 36, a protrusion portion 37, and a protrusion portion 38.

[0109] The cylindrical portion 33 is substantially cylindrical. The cylindrical portion 33 is configured to surround the rotation axis AX. The cylindrical portion 33 has an outer surface and an inner surface. The outer surface of the cylindrical portion 33 faces radially outward. The inner surface of the cylindrical portion 33 faces radially inward.

[0110] The front plate portion 34 is connected to the front end of the cylindrical portion 33. The front plate portion 34 is substantially circular in shape. The front plate portion 34 has a front surface and a rear surface. The front surface of the front plate portion 34 faces forward. The rear surface of the front plate portion 34 faces rearward.

[0111] The intake port 35 is located in the center of the front panel portion 34. The intake port 35 includes a through hole that connects the front surface and the rear surface of the front panel portion 34.

[0112] The front surface of the front plate portion 34 is provided with: a ring portion 341, a ring portion 342, a plurality of reinforcing rib portions 343, and a plurality of reinforcing rib portions 344. The ring portion 341, ring portion 342, reinforcing rib portions 343, and reinforcing rib portions 344 each protrude forward from the front surface of the front plate portion 344. The ring portion 341 is configured to surround the intake port 35. The ring portion 342 is configured to surround the ring portion 341. The reinforcing rib portions 343 extend radially. The reinforcing rib portions 343 are radially positioned between the ring portion 341 and the ring portion 342. The reinforcing rib portions 343 are connected to both the ring portion 341 and the ring portion 342. A plurality of reinforcing rib portions 343 are arranged circumferentially at intervals. The reinforcing rib portions 344 extend radially. The reinforcing rib portions 344 are positioned radially outward than the ring portion 342. The reinforcing rib portions 344 are connected to the ring portion 342. Multiple reinforcing ribs 344 are arranged circumferentially at intervals. The front end of the ring 341 is positioned further forward than the front ends of the reinforcing ribs 343 and 344. The front end of the ring 342 is positioned further forward than the front ends of the reinforcing ribs 343 and 344.

[0113] A rectifier 36 is disposed at the intake 35. The rectifier 36 guides the air drawn into the intake 35. The rectifier 36 has an inner ring 361, an outer ring 362, and a plurality of reinforcing ribs 363.

[0114] The front ends of the inner ring 361, the outer ring 362, and the reinforcing rib 363 are positioned further forward than the front surface of the front plate portion 34. The inner ring 361 is located at the center of the intake port 35. The outer ring 362 is positioned to surround the inner ring 361. The outer ring 362 defines the shape of the intake port 35. In this embodiment, the intake port 35 is circular.

[0115] Reinforcing ribs 363 extend radially. Multiple reinforcing ribs 363 are identical in circumferential dimension. Multiple reinforcing ribs 363 are identical in radial dimension. Multiple reinforcing ribs 363 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. Radially, the reinforcing ribs 363 are positioned between the inner ring 361 and the outer ring 362. The reinforcing ribs 363 are connected to both the inner ring 361 and the outer ring 362. The radially inner end of the reinforcing rib 363 is connected to the inner ring 361. The radially outer end of the reinforcing rib 363 is connected to the outer ring 362.

[0116] The outer ring 362 is fixed to the front plate portion 34. The inner ring 361 is fixed to the outer ring 362 by means of a reinforcing rib 363.

[0117] In this embodiment, the intake 35 includes a first intake 351 defined by the inner side of the inner ring 361, and a second intake 352 defined between adjacent reinforcing ribs 363. The first intake 351 is circular in shape. The rotation axis AX passes through the first intake 351. Multiple second intakes 352 are provided circumferentially. Each second intake 352 is substantially triangular in shape. Air can flow through the first intake 351 and the second intakes 352 respectively.

[0118] The outer ring 362 has: a first portion 362A having a first dimension in the axial direction, and a second portion 362B having a second dimension in the axial direction that is larger than the first dimension. The front end of the first portion 362A is configured to be further rearward than the front end of the second portion 362B. Multiple first portions 362A are provided at intervals in the circumferential direction. In this embodiment, three first portions 362A are provided in the circumferential direction. Three second portions 362B are provided between adjacent first portions 362A in the circumferential direction.

[0119] The front end of the second part 362B is configured to be further forward than the front end of the first part 362A. Axially, the position of the front end of the second part 362B is substantially the same as the position of the front end of the inner ring 361. A step is provided between the front end of the first part 362A and the front end of the second part 362B.

[0120] The reinforcing rib 363 includes a first reinforcing rib 363A connected to the first portion 362A and a second reinforcing rib 363B connected to the second portion 362B. Axially, the position of the front end of the first portion 362A is substantially the same as the position of the front end of the radially outer end of the first reinforcing rib 363A. Axially, the position of the front end of the second portion 362B is substantially the same as the position of the front end of the radially outer end of the second reinforcing rib 363B. That is, the radially outer end of the first reinforcing rib 363A does not protrude to a position further forward than the first portion 362A. The radially outer end of the second reinforcing rib 363B does not protrude to a position further forward than the second portion 362B. At least a portion of the front end of the first reinforcing rib 363A is configured to be further rearward than the front end of the second reinforcing rib 363B.

[0121] A protrusion 37 is provided on the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 33. The protrusion 37 protrudes radially outward from the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 33. Four protrusions 37 are provided at intervals in the circumferential direction. Two protrusions 37 are provided in the axial direction. That is, eight protrusions 37 are provided on the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 33.

[0122] A protrusion 38 is provided on the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 33. The protrusion 38 protrudes radially outward from the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 33. One protrusion 38 is provided on the upper part of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 33.

[0123] The front panel 34 is provided with a plurality of screw openings 39. In this embodiment, four screw openings 39 are provided.

[0124] The cylindrical portion 33, the front plate portion 34, the straightening portion 36, the protrusion portion 37, and the protrusion portion 38 are integrated. The first cover 31 is formed by injection molding. The substrate of the first cover 31 is a synthetic resin. Polypropylene resin can be exemplified as a synthetic resin. The coating material covering the substrate is an elastomer. Synthetic rubber can be exemplified as an elastomer.

[0125] In this embodiment, the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 33, the ring portion 341, the ring portion 342, the reinforcing rib portion 343, the reinforcing rib portion 344, the protrusion portion 37, and the protrusion portion 38 are made of an elastomer. The inner surface of the cylindrical portion 33 and the straightening portion 36 are made of synthetic resin.

[0126] like Figure 3 As shown, the rear outer casing 22 has a ring portion 225 configured to be further forward than the cover 13. The ring portion 225 is fixed to the inner surface of the rear outer casing 22. The rear surface of the ring portion 225 contacts the front surface of the ring portion 341 and the front surface of the ring portion 342. The contact between the rear surface of the ring portion 225 and the front surfaces of the ring portion 341 and the ring portion 342 positions the cover 13 and the outer casing 2.

[0127] The protrusion 37 contacts the inner surface of the rear outer casing 22. The contact between the protrusion 37 and the inner surface of the rear outer casing 22 positions the cover 13 and the outer casing 2.

[0128] The protrusion 38 contacts the inner surface of the rear housing 22. The cover 13 and the housing 2 are positioned by the protrusion 38 contacting at least a portion of the inner surface of the rear housing 22.

[0129] The ring portion 341, ring portion 342, protrusion 37, and protrusion 38 that contact the rear outer casing 22 undergo elastic deformation. As a result, the transmission of vibration generated by the attraction unit 3 to the outer casing 2 is suppressed.

[0130] The second cover 32 has: a cylindrical portion 41, a rear plate portion 42, an opening 43, a screw boss 44 with a screw hole 45, a support portion 47 supporting a pin 46, a protrusion 48, a protrusion 49, and a guide portion 70.

[0131] The cylindrical portion 41 is substantially cylindrical. The cylindrical portion 41 is configured to surround the rotation axis AX. The cylindrical portion 41 has an outer surface and an inner surface. The outer surface of the cylindrical portion 41 faces radially outward. The inner surface of the cylindrical portion 41 faces radially inward. In this embodiment, the inner diameter of the rear portion of the cylindrical portion 41 tends to decrease rearward.

[0132] The rear plate portion 42 is connected to the rear end of the cylindrical portion 41. The rear plate portion 42 is substantially circular in shape. The rear plate portion 42 has a front surface and a rear surface. The front surface of the rear plate portion 42 faces forward. The rear surface of the rear plate portion 42 faces rearward.

[0133] An opening 43 is provided in a portion of the rear plate portion 42. The opening 43 includes a through hole that connects the front surface and the rear surface of the rear plate portion 42.

[0134] Multiple screw bosses 44 are provided on the front part of the second cover 32. In this embodiment, four screw bosses 44 are provided. Screw holes 45 are provided on each of the multiple screw bosses 44.

[0135] Support portion 47 supports pin 46. Pin 46 is made of rubber. Support portion 47 includes a recess provided on the inner surface of cylindrical portion 41. Four support portions 47 are provided circumferentially at intervals. Pin 46 is supported on each of the four support portions 47. The four pins 46 contact the outer surface of cylindrical portion 23 of motor housing 16. The second cover 32 and motor housing 16 are positioned using the four pins 46.

[0136] A protrusion 48 protrudes rearward from the upper part of the rear surface of the rear plate portion 42. Two protrusions 48 are provided. The two protrusions 48 are arranged along the left-right direction. Figure 3As shown, the protrusion 48 contacts the sound-absorbing component 5. The protrusion 48 on the left side supports the sound-absorbing component 5 disposed at the exhaust port 11 of the left outer casing 22L. The protrusion 48 on the right side supports the sound-absorbing component 5 disposed at the exhaust port 11 of the right outer casing 22R.

[0137] A protrusion 49 protrudes rearward from the lower part of the rear surface of the rear plate portion 42. Two protrusions 49 are provided. The two protrusions 49 are arranged along the left-right direction. Figure 3 As shown, the protrusion 49 contacts the sound-absorbing component 5. The protrusion 49 on the left side supports the sound-absorbing component 5 disposed at the exhaust port 11 of the left outer casing 22L. The protrusion 49 on the right side supports the sound-absorbing component 5 disposed at the exhaust port 11 of the right outer casing 22R.

[0138] A guide portion 70 is fixed to the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 41. The guide portion 70 protrudes radially outward from the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 41. In this embodiment, the guide portion 70 includes a first guide portion 71, a second guide portion 72, and a third guide portion 73. In this embodiment, two first guide portions 71 are provided. Two second guide portions 72 are provided. Two third guide portions 73 are provided. The two first guide portions 71 are arranged in radially opposite positions. The two second guide portions 72 are arranged in radially opposite positions. The two third guide portions 73 are arranged in radially opposite positions. A first screw boss 44 and a second screw boss 44 are provided on one first guide portion 71. A third screw boss 44 and a fourth screw boss 44 are provided on the other first guide portion 71. The screw boss 44 is configured to protrude forward from the first guide portion 71.

[0139] In this embodiment, the cylindrical portion 41, the rear plate portion 42, the screw boss 44, the support portion 47, the protrusion portion 48, the protrusion portion 49, and the guide portion 70 are integrated. The second cover 32 is formed of synthetic resin. ABS (Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene) resin can be exemplified as the synthetic resin used to form the second cover 32.

[0140] The resilient member 60 is disposed between the cover 13 and at least a portion of the motor housing 16. The resilient member 60 suppresses the transmission of vibrations generated by the motor 14 or fan 15 to the cover 13.

[0141] In this embodiment, the elastic member 60 includes a first elastic member 61 and a second elastic member 62. At least a portion of the first elastic member 61 is configured to be located further forward than the motor housing 16. At least a portion of the second elastic member 62 is configured to be located further rearward than the motor housing 16.

[0142] The first elastic member 61 suppresses the transmission of vibrations generated by the motor 14 or fan 15 to the first cover 31. The first elastic member 61 is disposed between the surface of the fan cover portion 24 of the motor housing 16 and the rear surface of the front plate portion 34 of the first cover 31. The rear surface of the front plate portion 34 of the first cover 31 faces at least a portion of the surface of the fan cover portion 24 of the motor housing 16. The front plate portion 34 of the first cover 31 has an intake port 35 positioned further forward than the fan cover portion 24. The first elastic member 61 is annular, surrounding the intake port 35. The first elastic member 61 is connected to the rear surface of the front plate portion 34.

[0143] The first elastic member 61 is integrally formed with the first cover 31. The first elastic member 61 can be regarded as part of the first cover 31. As described above, when the first cover 31 is formed by injection molding, the first elastic member 61 can be formed using a coating material (elastomer) covering the substrate of the first cover 31.

[0144] The second elastic member 62 suppresses the transmission of vibrations generated by the motor 14 or fan 15 to the second cover 32. The second elastic member 62 is disposed between the motor housing 16 and the rear plate portion 42 of the second cover 32. The second cover 32 has an opening 43 positioned further rearward than the motor housing 16. The second elastic member 62 is connected to at least a portion of the motor housing 16 in a state that seals the opening 43. In one embodiment, the second elastic member 62 is connected to the foot portion 26 of the motor housing 16.

[0145] The second elastic member 62 includes a first connecting portion 63, a second connecting portion 64, a closing portion 65, and a tube portion 66. The first connecting portion 63 is fixed to one foot 26. The second connecting portion 64 is fixed to the other foot 26. The closing portion 65 is disposed between the first connecting portion 63 and the second connecting portion 64. The closing portion 65 is disposed inside the opening 43. The tube portion 66 protrudes rearward from the rear surface of the closing portion 65. A support hole 67 is provided in the tube portion 66.

[0146] [Assembly method of attraction unit]

[0147] When the suction unit 3 is assembled, a second elastic member 62 is connected to the foot 26 of the motor housing 16. A cable (not shown) connected to the control board 17 is disposed in the support hole 67 of the second elastic member 62. The second elastic member 62 is connected to the foot 26 of the motor housing 16 with the cable disposed in the support hole 67. The second elastic member 62 is engaged with one foot 26 by the first connecting portion 63 and the second connecting portion 64 of the second elastic member 62, thereby connecting the second elastic member 62 to the motor housing 16.

[0148] The two feet 26 protrude radially outward from the outer surface of the cylinder 23. Therefore, even if the radial dimension of the second elastic member 62 is larger than that of the cylinder 23, the second elastic member 62 can still be properly connected to the motor housing 16 using the feet 26.

[0149] The second elastic member 62 is connected to the motor housing 16 with the closure portion 65 facing the control base plate 17. The first connecting portion 63 and the second connecting portion 64 are respectively arranged to be further radially outward than the control base plate 17.

[0150] After connecting the motor housing 16 and the second elastic member 62, connect the motor housing 16, the second elastic member 62, and the second cover 32. Insert the motor housing 16 and the second elastic member 62 into the inside of the second cover 32 through the front opening. Insert the motor housing 16 and the second elastic member 62 into the inside of the second cover 32 such that the opening 43 of the second cover 32 is sealed by the closing portion 65 of the second elastic member 62. Make the pin 46 contact the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23 of the motor housing 16 inserted into the inside of the second cover 32. Position the motor housing 16 using the pin 46. Make at least a portion of the cable connected to the control board 17 extend rearward from the rear end of the support hole 67.

[0151] After the motor assembly 12, the second elastic member 62, and the second cover 32 are connected, the first cover 31 and the second cover 32 are connected. The inner diameter of the cylindrical portion 33 of the first cover 31 is larger than the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 41 of the second cover 32. The first cover 31 and the second cover 32 are connected such that at least a portion of the inner surface of the cylindrical portion 33 and the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 41 are opposed to each other. A guide portion 70 is provided on the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 41. The first cover 31 and the second cover 32 are connected such that the guide portion 70 is disposed inside the cylindrical portion 33. The guide portion 70 is disposed between the inner surface of the cylindrical portion 33 and the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 41.

[0152] The first cover 31 has a screw opening 39. The second cover 32 has a screw hole 45. The first cover 31 and the second cover 32 are secured together using four screws 90. The screws 90 are inserted from the front side of the first cover 31 into the screw opening 39 and then into the screw hole 45, thus connecting with the screw hole 45. In this way, the first cover 31 and the second cover 32 are secured together using screws 90.

[0153] [action]

[0154] Next, the operation of the vacuum cleaner 1 according to the embodiment will be described. When the user operates the drive button 81 while the motor 14 is stopped, the motor 14 is started. The motor 14 is driven by power supplied from the battery pack 19. The motor 14 drives the fan 15 to rotate. The rotation of the fan 15 generates a suction force at the air inlet 10. By generating a suction force at the air inlet 10, air from the external space of the housing 2 is drawn in through the air inlet 10 and flows into the internal space of the front housing 21.

[0155] Dust contained in the air flowing into the interior space of the front housing 21 is captured by the filter 18. The air flowing through the filter 18 is drawn in by the suction port 35 of the suction unit 3.

[0156] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the airflow in the suction unit 3 according to the embodiment. Air drawn into the suction port 35 by the rotation of the fan 15 flows from the air inlet 27 into the interior space of the motor housing 16. The air from the fan 15 is discharged through the exhaust port 28 to a position further rearward than the motor housing 16.

[0157] Air discharged from the exhaust port 28 of the motor housing 16 to the rear side impacts the front surface of the rear plate portion 42 of the second cover 32, and then flows forward between the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23 and the inner surface of the cylindrical portion 41 of the motor housing 16. Air flowing forward between the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23 and the inner surface of the cylindrical portion 41 of the motor housing 16 impacts the rear surface of the front plate portion 34 of the first cover 31, and then flows from the front end of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 41 towards the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 41.

[0158] Air flowing into the outer surface of the cylinder 41 is guided circumferentially by the guide 70. The air flows circumferentially in the flow path 74 defined by the guide 70. The air flowing through the flow path 74 flows out from the outlet 75 defined by the guide 70 to a position further rearward than the second cover 32. The air flowing out from the outlet 75 is discharged into the external space of the outer casing 2 through the exhaust port 11.

[0159] By using the guide section 70 to guide the air circumferentially on the outer surface of the second cover 32, the distance the air travels within the interior space of the outer casing 2 is increased. This increased airflow distance helps suppress noise generation.

[0160] [The relationship between the reinforcing ribs and the fan]

[0161] As described above, the suction unit 3 includes: a motor 14; a fan 15 that rotates about a rotation axis AX via the motor 14; an intake port 35 of the cover 13 disposed on the front side of the fan 15; and a reinforcing rib 363 disposed at the intake port 35 and extending radially along the rotation axis AX. The fan 15 has a plurality of blades 154. A plurality of reinforcing ribs 363 are arranged circumferentially.

[0162] Multiple blades 154 have the same shape. The multiple blades 154 have the same dimensions in the circumferential, radial, and axial directions. The multiple blades 154 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0163] Multiple reinforcing ribs 363 are identical in circumferential dimension. Multiple reinforcing ribs 363 are identical in radial dimension. Multiple reinforcing ribs 363 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0164] When the fan 15 rotates behind the reinforcing rib 363, a noise known as NZ noise may be generated. As the blade 154 passes behind the reinforcing rib 363 due to the rotation of the fan 15, the air between the reinforcing rib 363 and the blade 154 is compressed, causing an increase in pressure between them. This increased pressure between the reinforcing rib 363 and the blade 154 generates noise.

[0165] Figure 16 , Figure 17 ,as well as Figure 18 All figures are schematic representations of the reinforcing rib 363 and the blade 154 involved in the embodiments.

[0166] like Figure 16 As shown, when there is one blade 154 (Z) and one reinforcing rib 363 (V), the pressure rise between the reinforcing rib 363 and the blade 154 occurs once per rotation of the fan 15. When the fan 15 rotates at a speed N of 60 rpm per minute, the pressure rises 60 times per minute. Therefore, the noise frequency f... NZ It is 1Hz.

[0167] like Figure 17 As shown, when the number of blades 154 (Z) is 3 and the number of reinforcing ribs 363 (V) is 1, the pressure rises between the reinforcing rib 363 and the blades 154 3 times per rotation of the fan 15. When the fan 15 rotates at a speed N of 60 rpm per minute, the pressure rises 180 times per minute. Therefore, the noise frequency f... NZ It is 3Hz.

[0168] like Figure 18As shown, when the number of blades 154 (Z) is 3 and the number of reinforcing ribs 363 (V) is 2, the pressure rises between the reinforcing ribs 363 and blades 154 6 times per rotation of the fan 15. When the fan 15 rotates at a speed N of 60 rpm per minute, the pressure rises 360 times per minute. Therefore, the noise frequency f... NZ It is 6Hz.

[0169] In this embodiment, the frequency f of the noise generated by the rotation of the fan 15 is such that... NZ For frequencies above 20000Hz, the number of blades 154 (Z), the number of reinforcing ribs 363 (V), and the fan speed 15 (N) per minute are determined.

[0170] The human audible frequency range is said to be above 15Hz and below 20,000Hz. Therefore, even if noise is generated by the rotation of fan 15, if the frequency f... NZ Noise with a frequency above 20,000 Hz is inaudible to humans. That is, if the frequency of the noise is f... NZ If the frequency is above 20,000 Hz, then noise that is perceptible to humans can be suppressed.

[0171] The frequency f of the noise NZ It is represented by the following equation (1).

[0172] f NZ = (mk×V)×N / 60…(1)

[0173] Where m: integer, k: integer, V: number of reinforcing ribs 363, N: fan speed 15 per minute [rpm].

[0174] In addition, the integer m in equation (1) is represented by the following equation (2).

[0175] m=n×Z+k×V…(2)

[0176] Where n: number of times (natural number), Z: number of leaves 154.

[0177] The integer m represents the rate of noise attenuation relative to the distance between the vacuum cleaner 1 (fan 15 and reinforcing rib 363). The smaller the absolute value of the integer m, |m|, the more it means that the noise generated by the vacuum cleaner 1 can reach a distance without attenuation.

[0178] With the distance between the vacuum cleaner 1 (fan 15 and reinforcing rib 363) as the noise source set as Δx, the noise value generated by the vacuum cleaner 1 set as ΔdB, the characteristic Mach number set as Mc, the Mach number at the front end of the blade 154 set as Mm, and the duct radius set as R, the following formula (3) holds true.

[0179] ΔdB / Δx = -8.69 × |m| × (Mc 2 -Mm 2 ) 1 / 2 / R…(3)

[0180] Equation (3) means that the smaller the absolute value |m|, the more difficult it is for the noise value ΔdB to be attenuated, even if the distance Δx between the noise source and the vacuum cleaner 1 is relatively long. That is, it means that the smaller the absolute value |m|, the more the noise generated by the vacuum cleaner 1 can reach the vacuum cleaner 1 without attenuation, even at a position with a relatively long distance between the noise source and the vacuum cleaner 1.

[0181] In the implementation method, when the integer m is greater than or equal to -1 and less than or equal to +1 (|m|≤1), the frequency f NZ For frequencies above 20000Hz, the number Z of blades 154, the number V of reinforcing ribs 363, and the rotational speed N of fan 15 are determined. Even under the condition that the noise level ΔdB of vacuum cleaner 1 does not easily attenuate and the noise reaches a distance, if the noise frequency f NZ If the frequency is above 20,000 Hz, then noise that is perceptible to humans can also be suppressed.

[0182] It should be noted that the characteristic Mach number Mc is determined based on the integer m and the hub ratio σ. The hub ratio σ is the ratio of the hub diameter to the duct diameter (hub diameter / duct diameter). In free space without ducts, the hub ratio σ is 0.

[0183] Figure 19 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the characteristic Mach number Mc involved in the implementation method. For example... Figure 19 As shown, the characteristic Mach number Mc is determined based on the integer m and the hub ratio σ.

[0184] It should be noted that when the diameter of blade 154 is set to D[m] and the speed of sound is set to a0, the Mach number Mm at the leading end of blade 154 is expressed by the following equation (4).

[0185] Mm=(π×D×N) / (60×a0)…(4)

[0186] Figure 20 The frequency f of the noise involved in the implementation method is used to describe the method. NZ A diagram illustrating the calculation method.

[0187] exist Figure 20In the example shown, firstly, the number Z of blades 154, the number V of reinforcing ribs 363, the speed N of fan 15, the integer k, and the number of cycles n are each determined to be arbitrary values. After determining the number Z, the number V, the speed N, the integer k, and the number of cycles n to be arbitrary values, the integer m is calculated based on equation (2). After calculating the integer m based on equation (2), the frequency f is calculated based on equation (1). NZ .

[0188] Figure 20 It shows that: the number Z is determined to be 3, the number V is determined to be 5, the rotational speed N is determined to be 600 rpm, and the integer k is determined to be... Figure 20 The values ​​shown are the integer k and integer m when the frequency n is determined to be 1, and the frequency f. NZ The relationship between them.

[0189] The integer k is determined as Figure 20 After obtaining the values ​​shown, the integer m is calculated based on equation (2). For example, when the integer k is -5, m = 1 × 3 + (-5) × 5, and the integer m is -22. When the integer k is -4, m = 1 × 3 + (-4) × 5, and the integer m is -17.

[0190] After determining the integers k and m, the frequency f is calculated based on equation (1). NZ For example, when the integer k is -5 and the integer m is -22, f NZ = (-22-(-5)×5)×600 / 60, frequency f NZ The frequency is 30Hz. When the integer k is -4 and the integer m is -17, f NZ = (-17 - (-4) × 5) × 600 / 60, frequency f NZ It is 30Hz.

[0191] like Figure 20 As shown, the number of elements Z, the number of bars V, the rotational speed N, and the number of cycles n are all determined to be arbitrary values. Even if the integers k and m change, the frequency f remains constant. NZ It is also a constant value (30Hz).

[0192] exist Figure 20 In the example shown, the absolute value |m| is at its minimum when the integer m is -2. Therefore, this means that: in Figure 20 In the example shown, when the integer m is -2, even if the distance Δx between the vacuum cleaner 1 and the vacuum cleaner is relatively long, the noise value ΔdB is difficult to attenuate.

[0193] In the implementation, when the integer m is greater than or equal to -1 and less than or equal to +1 (|m|≤1), the frequency f NZFor frequencies above 20000Hz, the number of elements Z, the number of bars V, the rotational speed N, the integer k, and the number of cycles n are determined. Based on this, even under conditions where the noise value ΔdB is difficult to attenuate, if the noise frequency f... NZ If the frequency is above 20,000 Hz, then noise that is perceptible to humans can also be suppressed.

[0194] It should be noted that in the implementation method, the number Z is selected from 2 to 20. The number V is selected from 1 to 50. The rotational speed N is selected from 1000 to 40000. The integer k is selected from -10 to +10. The number of times n is selected from 1 to 10. By limiting the range of values ​​for the number Z, the number V, the rotational speed N, the integer k, and the number of times n, the frequency f is made... NZ The computational load is thus reduced.

[0195] [Instructions for setting up the inhalation unit]

[0196] Next, the setting method of the attraction unit 3 will be explained. The setting of the attraction unit 3 includes: making the frequency f... NZ For frequencies above 20000Hz, the number Z of blades 154, the number V of reinforcing ribs 363, and the fan speed N per minute are determined. The settings for the suction unit 3 are executed via a computer system.

[0197] Figure 21 This is a block diagram illustrating a computer system 1000 according to an embodiment. The computer system 1000 includes: a processor 1001 such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit); a main storage device 1002 including non-volatile storage devices such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and volatile storage devices such as RAM (Random Access Memory); a memory 1003; and an interface 1004 including input / output circuitry. The processor 1001 reads a computer program from the memory 1003 and extends it to the main storage device 1002, executing the settings of the access unit 3 according to the computer program. It should be noted that the computer program can be transmitted to the computer system 1000 via a network.

[0198] So that the frequency f of the noise NZWhen setting the attraction unit 3 for frequencies above 20000Hz, the computer system 1000 first determines the number Z, the number V, the integer k, and the number of times n to arbitrary values. After determining the number Z, the number V, the integer k, and the number of times n to arbitrary values, the computer system 1000 calculates the absolute value |m| of the integer m based on equation (2). The computer system 1000 determines the values ​​of the number Z, the number V, the integer k, and the number of times n in such a way that the integer m is greater than or equal to -1 and less than or equal to +1, i.e., |m|≤1.

[0199] After determining the values ​​of integer m, number of items Z, number of items V, integer k, and frequency n that satisfy the condition |m|≤1, computer system 1000, based on the integer m, number of items V, integer k, and equation (1) that satisfy the condition |m|≤1, makes the frequency f NZ For frequencies above 20000Hz, determine the rotational speed N.

[0200] Figure 22 This is a flowchart illustrating the method for setting the attraction unit 3 according to the implementation method.

[0201] Computer system 1000 determines the number Z of blades 154. The number Z is a natural number. Computer system 1000 determines the number Z from a range of values ​​between 2 and 20 (step S1).

[0202] Computer system 1000 determines the number V of reinforcing ribs 363. The number V is a natural number. Computer system 1000 determines the number V from a range of values ​​between 1 and 50 (step S2).

[0203] Computer system 1000 determines the integer k. Computer system 1000 determines the integer k from the range of values ​​above -10 and below 10 (step S3).

[0204] Computer system 1000 determines the number of iterations n. The number of iterations n is a natural number. Computer system 1000 determines the number of iterations n from a range of values ​​between 1 and 10 (step S4).

[0205] It should be noted that the order of the processes in steps S1, S2, S3, and S4 is arbitrary. Furthermore, at least two of the processes in steps S1, S2, S3, and S4 can be executed simultaneously.

[0206] The computer system 1000 calculates the integer m based on the number Z determined in step S1, the number V determined in step S2, the integer k determined in step S3, the number of times n determined in step S4, and equation (2). That is, the computer system 1000 substitutes the number Z determined in step S1, the number V determined in step S2, the integer k determined in step S3, and the number of times n determined in step S4 into equation (2) to calculate the integer m (step S5).

[0207] Computer system 1000 determines whether the absolute value |m| of the integer m calculated in step S5 is less than or equal to 1 (step S6).

[0208] In step S5, if the absolute value |m| is not below 1 (step S6: No), the computer system 1000 changes at least one of the following: number of items Z, number of items V, integer k, and number of times n. The computer system 1000 changes the combination of the number of items Z, number of items V, integer k, and number of times n until the absolute value |m| of the integer m calculated based on equation (2) is below 1.

[0209] In step S5, if the absolute value |m| is less than or equal to 1 (step S6: Yes), the computer system 1000 determines the rotational speed N of the fan 15. The rotational speed N is a natural number. The computer system 1000 determines the rotational speed N from a range of values ​​between 1000 and 40000 (step S7).

[0210] Computer system 1000 calculates the frequency f based on the integer m determined in step S5, the integer k determined in step S3, the number of bars V determined in step S2, the rotational speed N determined in step S7, and equation (1). NZ That is, the computer system 1000 substitutes the integer m determined in step S5, the integer k determined in step S3, the number of bars V determined in step S2, and the rotational speed N determined in step S7 into equation (1) to calculate the frequency f. NZ (Step S8)

[0211] The frequency f calculated in step S8 of the computer system 1000 determination process NZ Is it above 20000Hz (step S9)?

[0212] In step S9, the frequency f is determined. NZ If the frequency is not above 20000Hz (step S9: No), the computer system 1000 changes the rotational speed N. The computer system 1000 changes the rotational speed N while keeping the integer m determined in step S5, the integer k determined in step S3, and the number of bars V determined in step S2 fixed, until the frequency f calculated based on equation (1) is reached. NZ It is above 20000Hz.

[0213] In step S9, the frequency f is determined. NZ If the frequency is above 20000Hz (step S9: Yes), the computer system 1000 ends the setting of the attraction unit 3.

[0214] As described above, in the implementation, based on equation (2), the number Z, the number of items V, the integer k, and the number of times n are determined respectively in a manner such that the integer m is greater than or equal to -1 and less than or equal to +1 (steps S1 to S6). After the number Z, the number of items V, the integer k, and the number of times n, where the integer m is greater than or equal to -1 and less than or equal to +1, are determined respectively, based on equation (1), the frequency f is determined to be such that... NZ For frequencies above 20000Hz, determine the rotational speed N (steps S7 to S9).

[0215] As an example, the number of items Z is determined to be 11, the number of items V is determined to be 14, the integer k is determined to be -4, and the number of times n is determined to be 5. Substituting these values ​​into equation (2), the integer m is -1. The rotational speed N is determined to be 22000 rpm. Substituting these values ​​into equation (1), the frequency f NZ It is approximately 20167 Hz. It should be noted that when the rotational speed N is set to 40000 rpm, the frequency f... NZ The frequency is approximately 36666 Hz. Therefore, with the number of lines Z determined to be 11, the number of lines V determined to be 14, the integer k determined to be -4, and the number of repetitions n determined to be 5, the rotational speed N is set to be between 22000 and 40000, so that the frequency f... NZ It is above 20000Hz.

[0216] [Effect]

[0217] As explained above, according to the embodiment, when the fan 15 rotates behind the reinforcing rib 363, the frequency f of the noise generated by the rotation of the fan 15 is such that... NZ To achieve a frequency of 20,000 Hz or higher, the number of blades 154 (Z), the number of reinforcing ribs 363 (V), and the fan speed 15 (N) per minute were determined. The human audible frequency band is said to be above 15 Hz and below 20,000 Hz. Therefore, even if noise is generated due to the rotation of the fan 15, if the noise frequency f... NZ Noise with a frequency above 20,000 Hz is inaudible to humans. That is, if the frequency f of the noise is above 20,000 Hz... NZ If the frequency is above 20,000 Hz, noise levels that are perceptible to humans are suppressed. Therefore, the noise generated by vacuum cleaner 1 is suppressed.

[0218] Frequency f NZThe calculation is performed using equation (1). The integer m is calculated using equation (2). The integer m (=n×Z+k×V) constitutes the formula shown in equation (3). The integer m is: the value related to the attenuation rate of the noise value ΔdB relative to the distance Δx between the fan 15 and the reinforcing rib 363. The smaller the absolute value |m| of the integer m, the more it means that the noise generated by the vacuum cleaner 1 can reach a distance without attenuation. That is, a smaller absolute value |m| means that the noise value ΔdB of the vacuum cleaner 1 is difficult to attenuate. When the absolute value |m| is less than 1, the noise value ΔdB of the vacuum cleaner 1 is difficult to attenuate. When the integer m is more than -1 and less than +1 (|m|≤1), the frequency f NZ For frequencies above 20000Hz, the number Z of blades 154, the number V of reinforcing ribs 363, and the rotational speed N of fan 15 are determined. Even under conditions where the noise level ΔdB of vacuum cleaner 1 is difficult to attenuate, if the noise frequency f NZ With a frequency of over 20,000 Hz, the noise level of the vacuum cleaner 1, which is within human range, is also suppressed.

[0219] For reference Figure 22 As explained in steps S1 to S6, the number of items Z, the number of items V, the integer k, and the number of times n are determined based on (2) in such a way that the integer m is greater than or equal to -1 and less than or equal to +1.

[0220] After determining the number Z, the number of items V, the integer k, and the number of repetitions n in a manner that makes the integer m greater than or equal to -1 and less than or equal to +1, refer to... Figure 22 As described in steps S7 to S9, so that the frequency f NZ For frequencies above 20000Hz, the rotational speed N is determined based on equation (1).

[0221] In step S1, the number Z is selected from natural numbers between 2 and 20. In step S2, the number V is selected from natural numbers between 1 and 50. In step S3, the integer k is selected from -10 to 10. In step S4, the number of repetitions n is selected from natural numbers between 1 and 10. In step S7, the rotational speed N is selected from natural numbers between 1000 and 40000. By limiting the ranges of the selected number Z, the selected number V, the selected integer k, the selected number of repetitions n, and the selected rotational speed N, the computer system calculates the frequency f to 1000. NZ The computational load is thus reduced.

[0222] In this implementation, the number of items Z is 11, the number of strips V is 14, the integer k is -4, and the number of cycles n is 5. The rotational speed N is set to between 22,000 and 40,000.

[0223] An inner ring 361 is disposed at the center of the intake port 35. Accordingly, a first intake port 351 is formed inside the inner ring 361. The radially inner end of the reinforcing rib 363 is connected to the inner ring 361. Accordingly, a plurality of reinforcing ribs 363 are connected together by means of the inner ring 361. In addition, a second intake port 352 is formed between adjacent reinforcing ribs 363.

[0224] An outer ring 362 is arranged to surround the inner ring 361. The outer ring 362 defines the shape of the intake port 35 (second intake port 352). The radially outer end of the reinforcing rib 363 is connected to the outer ring 362. Accordingly, the reinforcing rib 363 is supported by the inner ring 361 and the outer ring 362 respectively.

[0225] The outer ring 362 has: a first portion 362A having a first dimension in the axial direction, and a second portion 362B having a second dimension larger than the first dimension in the axial direction. Multiple first portions 362A are provided at intervals in the circumferential direction. Second portions 362B are provided between adjacent first portions 362A in the circumferential direction. A step is provided at the front end of the outer ring 362. Accordingly, the airflow drawn into the intake port 35 is adjusted, and noise is suppressed.

[0226] The reinforcing rib 363 includes a first reinforcing rib 363A connected to the first portion 362A and a second reinforcing rib 363B connected to the second portion 362B. At least a portion of the front end of the first reinforcing rib 363A is configured to be further rearward than the front end of the second portion 362B. Accordingly, the airflow drawn into the intake port 35 is adjusted, and noise is suppressed.

[0227] [Other Implementation Methods]

[0228] In the above embodiments, the second cover 32 and the second elastic component 62 can be integrally formed.

[0229] In the above embodiments, the suction unit 3 is disposed in a handheld vacuum cleaner. The suction unit 3 may also be disposed in a vacuum cleaner equipped with casters.

Claims

1. A vacuum cleaner, characterized in that, The vacuum cleaner includes: motor; A fan that rotates about a central axis using the motor; A cover having an intake port disposed on the front side of the fan; as well as A reinforcing rib is disposed at the suction port and extends radially along the rotation axis. The fan has multiple blades. Multiple reinforcing ribs are arranged circumferentially on the rotating shaft. So that the frequency f of the noise generated by the rotation of the fan NZ For frequencies above 20000Hz, the number of blades Z, the number of reinforcing ribs V, and the fan speed N per minute are determined. in, Based on m = n × Z + k × V, the number Z, the number of items V, the integer k, and the number of times n are determined in such a way that the integer m is greater than or equal to -1 and less than or equal to +1. According to f NZ = (mk×V)×N / 60, so that the frequency f NZ To determine the rotational speed N in a manner above 20000Hz, The integer m is a value related to the rate of noise attenuation relative to the distance between the fan and the reinforcing rib.

2. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The number Z is selected from 2 or more and less than 20. The number of items V is selected from 1 or more and 50 or less. The rotational speed N is selected from 1000 and above to 40000. The integer k is selected from -10 and below 10. The number n is selected from 1 or more and 10 or less.

3. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 2, characterized in that, The number Z is 11. The number of items V is 14. The rotational speed N is above 22,000 and below 40,000. The integer k is -4. The number n is 5.

4. The vacuum cleaner according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The vacuum cleaner has an inner ring disposed at the center of the suction inlet. The radially inner end of the reinforcing rib is connected to the inner ring.

5. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 4, characterized in that, The vacuum cleaner has an outer ring configured to surround the inner ring and define the shape of the suction inlet. The radially outer end of the reinforcing rib is connected to the outer ring.

6. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 5, characterized in that, The outer ring has: a first portion having a first dimension in the axial direction, and a second portion having a second dimension in the axial direction that is larger than the first dimension. The first part has multiple open-spaced sections arranged circumferentially. The second part is disposed between adjacent first parts.

7. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 6, characterized in that, The reinforcing rib includes: a first reinforcing rib connected to the first portion, and a second reinforcing rib connected to the second portion. At least a portion of the front end of the first reinforcing rib is configured to be further rearward than the front end of the second reinforcing rib.

8. A method for setting up a vacuum cleaner, characterized in that, The vacuum cleaner includes: motor; A fan having multiple blades that rotate about a central axis using the motor; A cover having an intake port disposed on the front side of the fan; as well as A reinforcing rib is disposed at the suction inlet, extends radially along the rotating shaft, and is provided in plurality of such ribs circumferentially along the rotating shaft. So that the frequency f of the noise generated by the rotation of the fan NZ For frequencies above 20000Hz, the number of blades Z, the number of reinforcing ribs V, and the fan speed N per minute are determined. in, Based on the formula m = n × Z + k × V, the number Z, the number of items V, the integer k, and the number of repetitions n are determined in such a way that the integer m is greater than or equal to -1 and less than or equal to +1. According to f NZ = (mk×V)×N / 60, so that the frequency f NZ To determine the rotational speed N in a manner above 20000Hz, The integer m is a value related to the rate of noise attenuation relative to the distance between the fan and the reinforcing rib.

9. The method for setting up a vacuum cleaner according to claim 8, characterized in that, The number Z is determined from 2 to 20. The number of items V is determined from 1 to 50. The rotational speed N is determined from 1000 to 40000. The integer k is determined from -10 to 10. The number n is determined from 1 to 10.

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